Stumble! (and Other PR Blog Jots)

Guide to StumbleUpon
Paul GillinIn his monthly newsletter, Paul Gillin sings the praises of social sharing platform StumbleUpon. I’ve never fully been clear on the benefits of StumbleUpon, it is one of those platforms that I know about in theory, but probably couldn’t fully explain to a newbie. If you’re like me, then this might be a good place to start learning more. “StumbleUpon is one of my favorite examples of this genre. Once you become a member, you can install the StumbleUpon toolbar and
immediately begin flagging interesting sites. Your selections and descriptions go into a common area where others can see what you chose and why. As others vote for the same sites, those selections rise in the StumbleUpon hierarchy.”“Should Marketing Executives Blog?”
Personal Branding BlogTo blog, or not to blog, seems to be a question on many people’s minds, even those in marketing. Social media seems to come naturally to those in communications, but is it always necessary for higher level people to be in the conversation in order to advise others on how to join it? Dan Schwabel reprints a recent article of his with recommendations. “There is a lot of speculation in the blogosphere about whether marketing executives should blog. One train of thought is that if they were to blog it wouldn’t be authentic or transparent. Some assume the message would read as spin, typically included in press material. People automatically label marketers as people who are just spitting back corporate messages that may or may not be true. Are all marketers liars? Well, one thing is for sure, when you are actively
involved and participating in social media, the truth does come out.”Interview: Brian Morrissey of AdWeek
Tech PR GemsIn part two of a interview with Brian Morrissey of AdWeek, Morrissey discusses the importance of Twitter, his complicated relationship with PR flacks, and much more. I especially enjoyed the section dealing with what can cause the disconnect between PR pros and the media. “The biggest thing that frustrates me is that there’s a disconnect between what PR people say they do and what they really do. There’s this idea that they’re there to “help reporters,” but that’s not true. Their goal, as I see it, is to make their client make good, control information and act as gatekeepers. Those are often in conflict with what I’m trying to do. On top of that, there’s too much spam coming from PR people. Trust me, I could write all day about the untargeted, useless stuff I’m bombarded with.”Community Support
ToddAndOne of the brilliant aspects of social media is how it does truly bring people together, along with all its professional benefits. As his sister is headed for a double mastectomy to treat her breast cancer, Todd And asks for you help. Please visit his page and give what you can for a good cause. “That said, all I ask is that you keep Tricia in your thoughts and
prayers this weekend and for the foreseeable future. If you feel inclined to provide further support (even if it’s just $2), please visit 4tricia.com – you’ll see three options for how you can help. The big spenders may be interested in the icon sponsorship that runs $300/lifetime.”